Pick a perfect patio

Brio Tuscan Grill: The ideal antidote to a shopping frenzy is a lazy, two-hour lunch in the courtyard at this lovely spot. Have the beef carpaccio with field greens, the mushroom focaccia or the crab cake with citrus pesto. And, for sure, a refreshing bellini. 1431 Plaza Place in Southlake Town Center, 817-310-3136; www.brioitalian.com.

Hoffbrau: The great patio at the newest of this Texas-rooted steak mini-chain has a fire pit and rocking chairs, so you can make an evening of it. The pork ribs and grilled quail are good, the steaks topped with lemon-butter are fine and the chicken-fried steak gets plenty of praise. 4000 Arlington Highlands Road, Arlington, 817-417-7184; www.hoffbrausteaks.com.

Lambert's: When the dining room fills up, see if there's still room on the patio, where new landscaping includes blooming vines climbing the stucco walls. Snack on a charcuterie board and achiote-seared chick peas with goat cheese, along with buttery barbecued shrimp. 2731 White Settlement Road., Fort Worth; 817-882-1161; www.lambertsfortworth.com.

Piola Italian Restaurant and Garden: Charming cottage in the Monticello neighborhood recently opened its spacious, inviting patio, complete with an outdoor bar and kitchen. Relax at an umbrella-covered table next to the trickling waterfall along the back wall, and enjoy a bottle of wine with warm goat cheese bruschetta, the boffo Grandma's lasagna or saucy eggplant Parmesan. 1700 Mattison Ave., Fort Worth; 817-989-0007.